The top variant is the S 63 super limousine, which carries 510 hp under its hood. There’s also a discreetly armored version, the S 600 Guard.

On the S 350, Mercedes' 3.5 liter V6 does a sufficient job of propelling nearly two tons of automobile. It helps that the peak 350 Nm is delivered from as low as 2400 rpm, and subtle prods of the accelerator are all that’s needed to keep up with traffic. When it comes to high-tailing it, the 272 hp is keenly appreciated.

Shifts feel stiff when the gearbox is cold, but once it warms up, the seven-speed automatic is silky and seamless. It’s too bad that Mercedes’ superb V6 and V8 diesels are not yet available, as they would deliver even better in-gear acceleration and fuel economy.

One occupant that the S-Class has not forgotten is the one who sits behind the wheel. Despite its mission to cosset the rear-seat passengers, the driver is richly rewarded. The steering is light but rich with feedback. The car changes direction with an agility that would shame many smaller sports sedans. If Mika Hakkinen had retired to become a bank president, this would be his car. “Ode to Joy” should be playing.

Touch sensitive buttons are used throughout. They look clean, but can sometimes be a bit confusing to use.

The rear back-up camera has two settings: whether you're parking in parallel or backward.